CEOs Flag Jittery US Consumers as Global Tensions Intensify

Group 1: Corporate Outlook - Executives are expressing concerns that jittery US consumers and geopolitical tensions are impacting demand as earnings season progresses [1][5] - Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have highlighted that geopolitical uncertainty is affecting their profit outlook and travel demand [2] - Consumer staples companies like Procter & Gamble and McCormick report that shoppers are remaining cautious [2] Group 2: Industry Performance - 3M Co. experienced a significant decline after its outlook missed estimates, citing uncertainty in consumer and auto sectors [3] - Fastenal Co. and JB Hunt Transport Services also reported disappointing results, indicating uneven demand and a fragile freight market [3] - Despite these challenges, about 80% of S&P 500 Index members reporting so far have exceeded analysts' expectations [4] Group 3: Economic Environment - Executives note that policy uncertainty and geopolitical risks are overshadowing otherwise positive economic fundamentals [5] - McCormick's CEO mentioned that the market environment is characterized by volatility, inflation pressure, and low consumer confidence [6]